Step-by-step guide to using China Railway 12306 app for foreigners. Registration, booking, seat selection, and ticket collection.
Step-by-step guide to using China Railway 12306 app for foreigners. Registration, booking, seat selection, and ticket collection.
The 12306 app is China Railway's official booking platform for train tickets. It's the primary way Chinese travelers book high-speed rail (G/D trains) and regular train tickets. While the interface is primarily in Chinese, an English version is available, making it accessible to foreign travelers.
Why use 12306?
If you find 12306 challenging, Trip.com offers an English-friendly alternative with instant booking. However, there's a small service fee (typically CNY 30-60 per ticket). 12306 remains the most economical option.
| Platform | Download Source |
|---|---|
| iOS | App Store (search "铁路12306" or "Railway 12306") |
| Android | Google Play or official Chinese app stores (search "铁路12306") |
| Web | 12306.cn or kyfw.12306.cn |
The official app has a red train logo and "铁路12306" in Chinese characters. Third-party apps may charge hidden fees or have different policies. Always use the official Railway 12306 app.
Launch the 12306 app and tap "Me" (我的) in the bottom right corner. Look for the gear icon (settings) in the top right.
Tap Settings → Version Switch (版本切换) → Select "English". This will translate most of the interface to English.
Tap "Register" and select "Passport" as your ID type. Fill in your email address or phone number, create a password, and enter your personal information:
You'll receive a verification code at your registered email. Enter it within the specified time frame to verify your account.
After successful registration, your account is created but requires identity verification before booking tickets. This process typically takes 3-5 business days.
First-time foreign passport holders need to complete identity verification before booking tickets:
If verification isn't approved quickly, bring your original passport to any railway station ticket window. Staff can verify your identity immediately, allowing you to book tickets the same day.
On the home screen, enter your departure city/station (e.g., "Xi'an North") and destination (e.g., "Beijing West"). Select your travel date and tap "Search".
Filter results by departure time, duration, or train type (G for high-speed, D for high-speed, etc.). Popular routes from Xi'an include:
Select your preferred seating class:
Choose from your saved passenger list or add a new passenger. Ensure the name matches the passport exactly.
For high-speed trains, you may be able to select your specific seat:
Seat selection is first-come, first-served and may not be available on all trains.
12306 accepts:
Complete payment within 30 minutes of booking to secure your tickets.
Since January 2024, China has implemented electronic tickets for most high-speed trains. Your booking information is linked to your passport, and you can board by scanning your passport at the station:
Most modern stations support passport scanning. If you encounter issues, proceed to the manual channel with your passport and booking confirmation.
If you need a physical paper ticket (for accounting purposes or to visit stations that don't support electronic tickets):
| Train Type | Layout | Seat Configuration | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| G Train | 2+2 (Business) | A, F (window) | C, D (aisle) | Long-distance travel, business travelers |
| G Train | 2+3 (Second) | A, F (window) | C, D (aisle) | B (middle) | Budget travel, short trips |
| D Train | 2+2 (First) | A, F (window) | C, D (aisle) | Regional travel, comfort |
| D Train | 2+3 (Second) | A, F (window) | C, D (aisle) | B (middle) | Economy, most popular |
A and F are window seats (forward-facing). C and D are aisle seats. B is the middle seat in 2+3 configuration. Forward direction is usually indicated on your ticket.
| Time Before Departure | Refund Percentage | Fee |
|---|---|---|
| 8+ days | 100% | CNY 5-20 per ticket |
| 48 hours - 8 days | 95% | 5% of ticket price |
| 24-48 hours | 90% | 10% of ticket price |
| Less than 24 hours | 80% | 20% of ticket price |
If you miss your train without cancelling in advance, your ticket becomes invalid and cannot be refunded. Always cancel at least 24 hours before departure if plans change.
Need to change your travel date or time? 12306 allows ticket changes:
No, identity verification is required for all first-time foreign passport holders. This typically takes 3-5 business days.
You'll need to update your account information and re-verify. Bookings with old passport numbers will be invalid.
Yes, but they need your passport information and your ID verification must be completed first. The ticket will be linked to your passport.
Yes, 12306 accepts international credit cards. However, Alipay or WeChat Pay are more convenient and reliable.
If you miss your train without cancelling, your ticket becomes invalid and cannot be refunded. However, you may be able to take the next train on the same day if seats are available (standby tickets).
Most high-speed trains use electronic tickets linked to your passport. Paper tickets are only needed if the station doesn't support electronic entry or for accounting purposes.